Kona Shore Excursions - Royal Caribbean
Atlantis Submarine
After a short shuttle ride from the Kailua-Kona pier along the coastline of the historic town of Kona , arrive at the dive site where you will board the submarine to begin your undersea adventure. The Atlantis submarine will descend 100-feet underwater to explore 25 acres of coral reef gardens. The reef was formed on lava that flowed into the ocean 18,000 years ago. Inhabited by hundreds of species of tropical fish, corals and other sea life, it has been proclaimed one of the most popular sites to view Hawaiian marine life. With an air-conditioned interior, large view-ports and comfortable seating, this one-of-a-kind submarine allows you access to Hawaii 's sea life while the crew share their love of the ocean with you.
Minimum height to participate is 3 feet tall. Comfortable clothing and sensible shoes for boat transfers and navigating the nearly vertical seven-step submarine ladder are recommended. Approximate 35 minute dive.
Big Island Exploration
After an approximate 45 minute van ride to the Waikoloa Heliport, flight orientation and safety briefing, board your helicopter for an aerial exploration of the highlights of the Big Island of Hawaii. Fly over Kilauea's most recent eruption sites and follow the surface activity down to the devastated village of Kalapana . If conditions are right, aerial views of the Pu'u O'o Vent and active lava flows reveal the power of Pele. You may witness glowing skylights into underground lava tubes, lava cascades over cliffs, lava devouring forest and steam plumes as the molten rock enters the ocean. Volcanic activity and weather conditions vary hour to hour, offering a different view on every flight. You'll land at the Hilo International Airport for a brief rest stop.
Ola i ka wai a ka opua – this Hawaiian proverb tells us that "rain gives life." This Rain also gives us the resplendent countryside and waterfalls of the Hamakua Coastline and the Kohala Mountains . Your journey continues as you depart for the valleys of North Kohala . Kohala's windward coast is a landscape of sea cliffs, valley walls and waterfalls measured by the thousands of feet. The flight over this rugged and nearly inaccessible wilderness will leave you memories to last a lifetime.
Minimum age to participate is 2 years old. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 1.75 hours of flight time.
Deep Sea Fishing
This is your opportunity to fish in the billfish capital of the world. The deep-sea fishing grounds off the coast of Kona are teeming with marlin, ahi (yellow fin tuna), mahi-mahi (dorado), ono (wahoo) and short nose spearfish. Anglers from all over the globe hold dozens of world records in Kona. Your tour includes round-trip transportation to and from Honokohau Harbor , fully-equipped sportfishing boats that accommodate up to five guests, experienced and licensed captains and crew, soft drinks and bottled water.
Fish cannot be brought back on board the ship. No guarantees are made with respect to catching any fish.
Evening Cocktail Cruise
Set sail aboard a 51-foot trimaran for two hours of live music, heavy appetizers and a full-service open bar while cruising the Kona Coast . Come share the Aloha spirit!
Glassbottom Boat Reef Cruise
Step aboard Marian , a glassbottom boat that has been specially designed for comfort and clear viewing. Your tour begins as you board the vessel at Kailua Pier, only a few steps from your ship's launch site. Cruising over the reef, you will see and learn about the tropical fish, coral colonies, and the history and lore of the island. Marian's shallow draft takes you over the “pinnacle” where the reef comes to within inches of the glass, creating a special viewing and photo opportunity. Later, travel over to the “drop off” where you see the bottom plunge to over 100 feet. Be on the look out for occasional dolphins or even winter humpback whales. Guests of all ages will appreciate the easy boarding, shaded, cushioned seating, open-air breezes and informative narration.
Historic Kailua Village Walking Tour
Guided by a local resident, this walking tour introduces you to the history of Kailua village. Nestled among the many shops and restaurants of Kailua-Kona town you will find historical sites from the area's past. Hear stories from High Chief Umi's arrival to and rule from Kailua in the 1500's, to the days of Kamehameha the Great who united the Hawaiian Islands and governed from Kailua village until his death in 1819. Learn what life was like under the kapu system, the arrival of the missionaries and more. Your tour will take you to King Kamehameha's last seat of government, the first Christian Church in the Sandwich Islands, and the grounds of Hulihe`e Palace. Learn about the history and people of Kailua village, former summer home of Kings and new home to the Billfish Tournament and the Ironman Triathlon. A souvenir booklet is included.
This excursion involves approximately 5 block of walking. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat are recommended.
Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure
After an approximate 45 minute van ride to the Waikoloa Heliport, flight orientation and safety briefing, board your helicopter for an exploration of the Kohala Coast . Many consider this area to have the most spectacular scenery on the Big Island . The towering sea cliffs open into the deep and meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains . Waterfalls cascade thousands of feet into the rainforest below and remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements are still visible.
Minimum age to participate is 2 years old. Due to weight restrictions on board helicopters, all participants must register their body weight at the time of booking. This is a requirement of the helicopter companies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Approximately 45-50 minutes of flight time.
Kona Cloud Forest Botanical Walk
A short distance from the arid Kona coast is a lush forest on the slopes of the sleeping Hualalai volcano. Traveling to an elevation of 3,000 feet you will enter a private sanctuary that nurtures plants, birds and the human spirit with its peaceful isolation. As you walk unpaved trails through the quiet of the native forest and among palms, tree ferns, blossoms and bamboo, allow the cool air and songs from wild birds to sooth your senses. Your guide will provide information on the botanical specimens and geographic context of the area. After refreshments on the lanai you will visit a neighboring coffee plantation to taste organic Kona coffee and teas. While there you have the opportunity to purchase coffee and souvenirs and view the coffee roasting plantation.
Minimum age to participate is 8 years old. This excursion involves up to 1.5 miles of walking. Sturdy walking shoes and a light sweater or jacket are recommended. Rain jackets are provided.
Kona Highlights
This excursion will highlight some of Kona's most popular attractions. Visit the " Painted Church ," known for its dramatic murals. You'll then visit Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, or "Place of Refuge," the National Historical Park that played a special part in the lives of ancient Hawaiians. The Park was a refuge where absolution would be granted for law-breakers and vanquished warriors if they were fortunate enough to keep ahead of their pursuers. Today, the grounds feature displays of Hawaiian history. Stop at the Mauna Loa Royal Kona Coffee Store where you will have the opportunity to sample Hawaii 's famous gourmet coffee before returning to the ship.
Kona Kayak & Snorkel Adventure
After a short drive from the cruise ship pier arrive at the kayak starting point, famous Keauhou Bay - birthplace of King Kamehameha, where your guides will provide basic paddling instruction and safety information. While kayaking you will view Kuamoo Bay , sea caves and lava tubes. You may even sight dolphins or green sea turtles. Midway through kayaking, you will have the opportunity to snorkel and see some of Hawaii 's marine life up-close. After snorkeling, a picnic snack will be served on the shoreline. All necessary kayaking and snorkeling gear is provided.
Minimum age to participate is 10 years old. Participants should expect to paddle at a moderately active pace for approximately 3.5 miles, wear their swimsuit under their clothing and bring a towel. Sensible footwear, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended. This tour is not recommended for guests with back problems or heart conditions.
Kona Nature Cruise & Dolphin Search
Board a sightseeing catamaran and cruise along the historic Kona coastline as your guide recants Kona's long and colorful history. The onboard Marine Naturalist will provide narration on the area's natural history and the marine life that inhabit the surrounding waters. The warm ocean waters of the Hawaiian Islands teem with marine life and you may see bottlenose dolphins, green sea turtles, pilot whales and more, with Humpback Whales in season December through April. Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages are provided while you are being treated to live Hawaiian entertainment. Mixed drinks, beer and champagne are available for additional charge onboard the vessel.
While wildlife sightings are possible, they are not guaranteed.
Kona Outrigger Canoe
On this once in lifetime experience, your captain will provide full narration on Hawaiian and local Kona history. Your journey will begin in the shady hale on the beach overlooking the 1200 year old temple, Ahuena. After a brief orientation and safety briefing you will be welcomed on board an authentic Hawaiian outrigger canoe. You can paddle the outrigger canoe or just go along for the ride and let your narrator/guide do all the work. At the end of the tour a fruit bowl and kava ("awa") drink is provided. In ancient Hawaii "awa" was served to show great hospitality; today it is considered a calming herb.
Kona Snorkel & Cultural Park
Snorkel at Kahalu'u Beach Park, explore Pu'u Honua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge), and visit a real working Kona coffee farm and roaster. The cultural tour includes admission to the National Cultural Historical Park where you are able to tour the grounds and exhibits of an actual Hawaiian Place of Refuge, known to be one of the most authentic and well-preserved archeological sites in Hawaii. Surrounded by crystal blue water and ancient black lava-rock walls and full of Tiki statues and replicas of traditional outrigger canoe Halau (thatched huts), this white sand compound is one of the most scenic places in Hawaii . Prior to your tour of Pu'u Honua o Honaunau, you will explore Kona's underwater world at Kahalu'u Beach Park. After receiving all necessary snorkel gear and a safety briefing, your guide will take you on a guided snorkel adventure. In additional to assorted tropical fish and coral, be on the lookout for green sea turtles. Before returning to the cruise ship pier you will visit a Kona coffee roaster.
Minimum age to participate is 10 years old. Participants should wear their swimsuit under their clothing and bring a towel. Sensible footwear, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart conditions or persons who cannot swim.
Kona Tiki Barefoot Party Sail
Join a casual two-hour happy hour sightseeing cruise off Kailua-Kona with live Hawaiian music, hula dancers and a complimentary open bar! Board the 150-foot long Tamure, a massive replica of a Hawaiian sailing canoe. Take in the views of the historic Kailua-Kona coastline and Mauna Loa and Hualalai Mountains rising up in the background. You may see pods of Spinner Dolphins and from December through April you may even see whales. Relax on the main deck where you can watch the live Hawaiian band and hula dancers perform or head upstairs to the observation deck where you can relax and sunbathe. Don't forget your sunscreen, hat and camera!
An adult must accompany participants under 21 years old. Photo identification is required at the bar for alcoholic beverage service.
North Kohala & Parker Ranch
Driving through the small resort town of Kailua-Kona , your guide will point out important historic sights. Pass the Mokuaikaua, the first Christian church erected in Kailua by the American missionaries who landed in Hawaii in 1820. As you leave town, drive past the Hulihe'e Palace, which was the summer home of Hawaiian royalty. Following the Queen Kaahumanu Highway , view scenery that is visually striking and deeply contrasted by the ebony lava fields on one side and the ocean on the other. Continuing past the resort area of South Kohala and Waikoloa towards North Kohala , you will visit the ancient Royal Heiau called Pu'ukohola. Now a Historic National Park , it is said this site was built by the Great King Kamehameha.
Leaving the coastal region of the island you will begin the drive up the slopes of the dormant volcano Mauna Kea . Arriving in Waimea, known locally as Kamuela, you will take a historical look at Parker Ranch, once the largest ranch in the nation and founded more than 150 years ago by John Palmer Parker. The Ranch began with only two acres of land granted by King Kamehameha III and now consists of some 175,000 acres. During your stop at the Parker Ranch Visitor Center view the Parker Ranch movie that recounts ranch history and a take a self-guided museum that displays historic artifacts from early years on the ranch. Next, visit the Parker Ranch Historic Homes and Gardens. Two historic homes grace this setting -- Mana, the Parker's original 1847 koa wood cabin and Puuopelu, an 1862, 8,000 square-foot home filled with precious artworks and collectibles. Your return to the pier will be along the Mamalahoa Highway .
Pawai Bay Snorkel Tour
Explore Pawai Bay on this snorkeling adventure. After boarding a 51-foot trimaran, set sail for Pawai Bay where you'll swim and snorkel in a protected marine preserve. As you enter the water, the underwater world unveils countless varieties of fish and marine life. The trimaran is loaded with features, including an upper sun-deck, shaded cabin, a 15-foot water-slide, and an assortment of floatation devices: boogie boards, inner tubes, sea-view boxes and more! Your crew will provide you with personalized snorkeling instructions and necessary equipment on arrival at Pawai Bay .
Children 5 years and under are free. A continental-style breakfast will be served at check-in and a deli-style lunch is provided later in the day. Wear a swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel.
Raft & Snorkel Adventure
Your exploration of the Kona Coastline begins aboard a 24-foot Zodiac (high-speed motorized raft) as you pass and explore sea caves, lava tubes, blow holes and sights that are inaccessible to typical boats. Spinner dolphins, manta rays and sea turtles are common sights and together with the sounds of the sea, they provide a natural background as your captain recounts stories of Hawaiian folklore and history. A swimming and snorkeling stop will be made at Kealakekua Bay, a National Marine Park and site of the Captain Cook Monument . Back on board, light snacks, fruits and juices will be served. Snorkel equipment and instruction are provided.
Minimum age to participate is 4 years old. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests who suffer with back or neck problems. Wear a swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. Participants weighing 300 pounds or more should contact the shore excursion desk.
Snuba Kona Beach Dive
Finally, there is a way to experience the underwater breathing of scuba diving with the ease and simplicity of snorkeling. It's called Snuba and it's for those who enjoy snorkeling but are not ready for scuba diving. After a short walk to the beach shack in front of the nearby hotel, your PADI certified Snuba guide will fit you with all the necessary gear and provide an orientation. After a practice session in the shallow water lagoon, you'll paddle to the shoreline reef and spend approximately 45 minutes exploring Hawaii 's underwater world of tropical fish, turtles and assorted marine life.
Minimum age to participate is 8 years old.
Valley Waterfall Hiking Adventure
Treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime Hawaiian experience in the heart of Pololu Valley . Imagine walking along a historic cliffside trail 1000 feet above the valley floor. Along the way encounter waterfalls and panoramic views while your Naturalist Guide relates the area's natural and cultural history. Your destination is Kapoloa Falls, plunging from the crest 300 feet above you, and cascading across the trail falling another 200 feet into a deep chasm. You're able to walk directly behind the falls for a photo opportunity and an experience you'll long remember.
Your journey begins from the Kona pier as you travel north, eventually crossing four of the five volcanoes that form the Big Island . During your approximate 1.5 hour drive view lava landscapes and the diversity of the island's climates, while your Naturalist Guide shares the island's geologic, cultural, and natural history. Traveling to the northernmost point of the island, watch the island transform from the dry, barren, westside to the lush, verdant, wet, windward side. After a brief stop at the historic Kohala Mule Station and a scenic overlook, you'll four-wheel drive up the mountain to the trailhead.
Minimum age to participate is 8 years old. This tour includes a 3-mile walk over uneven terrain. Closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. All gear and accessories, including daypacks, walking staff, bottled water and a deli-style lunch, are provided |
